High school warns parents about controversial TV series

A MACKAY high school is warning parents and carers about the potential dangers of a Netflix TV series.

Mackay North State High School has sent an email airing concerns about the recently released streaming series 13 Reasons Why.

The fictional show's narrative features a United States high school girl named Hannah Baker, who explains posthumously via cassette tapes why she decided to take her own life.

The TV show features graphic scenes of rape and suicide and has been heavily criticised by some mental health experts and educators for the way it tackles suicide.

The email from Mackay North State High School states "headspace School Support is urging school communities and parents to be aware of the risks associated with children and young people watching the newly aired Netflix TV series".

"Due to the sensitive nature of the show's content, there are concerns that the show may trigger high levels of distress amongst its viewers, particularly children and young people," the email reads.

"Parents are encouraged to be aware of the risks associated with their child viewing the series."

The school also provided links to mental health help services, such as headspace and Kids Helpline.

headspace has also issued warnings on a national level.

The service warned the series "presents the viewer with very confronting and graphic messaging and imagery inclusive of suicide method and means".

Head of eheadspace Dr Steven Leicester said clinicians working for the service had been dealing with a steady stream of concerned parents and young people since the show first aired.

"There is a responsibility for broadcasters to know what they are showing and the impact that certain content can have on an audience - and on a young audience in particular," he said.

The mental health service urged "school communities, parents, and mental health services to be aware of the dangers and risks associated for children and young people who have been exposed to this content".

National suicide media initiative, Mindframe, also has significant concerns and warnings related to this content, according to headspace.

Netflix announced on May 3 that it would add "additional advisories" to the show, including a warning at the start of the first episode.

The full email sent to parents

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Caution - Netflix TV series.

headspace School Support is urging school communities and parents to be aware of the risks associated with children and young people watching the newly aired Netflix TV series, 13 Reasons Why.

Due to the sensitive nature of the show's content, there are concerns that the show may trigger high levels of distress amongst its viewers, particularly children and young people. Parents are encouraged to be aware of the risks associated with their child viewing the series.

For information about ways to support your child should they express concerns around their own mental health, refer to the following: